Published by Dr. Rob Harter
The Nonprofit Leadership Podcast discusses important issues facing nonprofit leaders in our community and features real stories from real leaders about what strategies and practices have made them successful. Enjoy the show!
Listen on Apple Podcasts36 min
Amy Tomasso America’s housing crisis is not only about affordability—it is also about a lack of diverse housing options for people at different income levels and stages of life. In this episode, Rob Harter speaks with Amy Tomasso, Director of Policy Innovation at Ivory Innovations, about the “missing middle” between detached single-family homes and large apartment buildings. Amy explains how duplexes, triplexes, cottage courts, accessory dwelling units, and other smaller housing types could create more attainable options for first-time homebuyers, growing families, and older adults hoping to downsize. Amy also shares how Ivory Innovations combines research, education, entrepreneurship, public policy, and hands-on affordable housing development to move promising ideas into practice. The conversation explores zoning reform, construction technology, innovative financing, cross-sector partnerships, and the important role nonprofit leaders and community foundations can play in developing local housing strategies. Key Topics Include: Why the housing crisis affects community wellbeing, economic development, food security, and financial stability What “missing middle” housing is and why many communities stopped building it How zoning reform, smaller lots, streamlined approvals, and developer support can expand housing options How Ivory Innovations tests new construction technologies and housing solutions through its Fieldworks program Why successful housing policy reforms need committed champions from government, business, nonprofits, or the community What nonprofit organizations can learn from the public and private sectors—and what those sectors can learn from nonprofits How students and emerging leaders can enter the housing field through Hack-A-House and other educational opportunities Mentioned in This Episode: Ivory Innovations The Little Book of Low-Cost, High-Impact Housing Solutions The Ivory Prize for Housing Affordability Ivory Innovations Fieldworks Hack-A-House Missing Middle Housing UCLA Housing Voice Podcast Fixer-Upper: How to Repair America’s Broken Housing Systems by Jenny Schuetz Escaping the Housing Trap by Charles Marohn Jr. and Daniel Herriges Missing Middle Housing: Thinking Big and Building Small to Respond to Today’s Housing Crisis by Daniel Parolek This Episode is Sponsored By: Donorbox Links to Resources: Interested in Leadership and Life Coaching? Visit Rob’s website: RobHarter.com Find us on YouTube: Nonprofit Leadership Podcast YouTube Channel Suggestions for the show? Email us at nonprofitleadershippodcast@gmail.com Request a sample coaching session: Email Rob at rob@robharter.com Subscribe and Share Listen and subscribe to the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast on iTunes , Spotify , or Amazon . Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with other nonprofit leaders!
38 min
Preston Cochrane Housing is essential, but is it enough to create lasting change for people experiencing chronic homelessness? In this episode, Rob Harter speaks with Preston Cochrane, CEO of The Other Side Village in Salt Lake City, Utah, about the nonprofit’s human-centered approach to homelessness. Rather than treating residents as clients or case numbers, the organization creates a supportive community where people can rebuild relationships, rediscover purpose, develop practical skills, and take responsibility for their futures. Preston explains how The Other Side Village combines permanent housing with peer mentorship, meaningful work, recovery support, social enterprise, and a democratic therapeutic community. He also discusses the need to balance compassion with accountability, why lived experience is central to the organization’s coaching model, and how the village measures long-term success through housing stability, self-reliance, sobriety, and crime-free living. Key Topics Include: Why housing alone may not address the isolation, trauma, addiction, mental health challenges, and broken relationships connected to chronic homelessness How a human-centered model helps residents move beyond short-term stabilization toward lasting transformation The importance of balancing compassion and accountability when serving people experiencing homelessness How coaches with lived experience provide credible peer support, mentorship, and encouragement Why residents are called neighbors and participate in a democratic therapeutic community How social enterprises provide employment, workforce training, purpose, and sustainable revenue The four outcomes The Other Side Village uses to measure success: permanent housing, employment or self-reliance, drug-free living, and crime-free living Mentioned in This Episode: Learn more about The Other Side Village Connect with Preston Cochrane on LinkedIn Learn more about The Other Side Academy Visit The Other Side Donuts Learn more about the National League of Cities This Episode is Sponsored By: Donorbox Links to Resources: Interested in Leadership and Life Coaching? Visit Rob’s website: RobHarter.com Find us on YouTube: Nonprofit Leadership Podcast YouTube Channel Suggestions for the show? Email us at nonprofitleadershippodcast@gmail.com Request a sample coaching session: Email Rob at rob@robharter.com Subscribe and Share Listen and subscribe to the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast on iTunes , Spotify , or Amazon . Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with other nonprofit leaders!
30 min
Donors want to know that their generosity is making a real difference. Yet many gifts can feel like they disappear into a “black box,” leaving supporters unsure where their donations went or whom they helped. In this episode, Rob Harter speaks with Antonis Politis, CEO and co-founder of Givelink, and Panos Kokmotos, COO and co-founder of Givelink, about how greater transparency can strengthen donor trust, improve the giving experience, and increase donor retention. Givelink enables donors to purchase products that nonprofits currently need, track those items through delivery, and receive photos, videos, and personalized stories showing their impact. Antonis and Panos explain why nonprofits should make giving more tangible and human, how AI can personalize donor communications without replacing authentic connection, and why Givelink’s transparency model has led donors to give approximately 60% more annually. Key Topics Include: Why uncertainty about where donations go can weaken donor trust and retention How Givelink connects donors with the specific products nonprofits currently need Why nonprofits should be able to track charitable impact as easily as consumers track a package How photos, videos, and personalized impact stories make giving more tangible Why Givelink reports that donors give approximately 60% more annually through its platform How nonprofits can use AI to personalize donor communications while preserving authentic human connection How Givelink provides its in-kind donation platform to nonprofits at no cost Mentioned in This Episode: Learn more about Givelink and its free in-kind donation platform for nonprofits: Givelink Explore Givelink’s resources for nonprofit organizations: Givelink for Nonprofits Research nonprofit accountability and transparency: Charity Navigator This Episode is Sponsored By: Donorbox Links to Resources: Interested in Leadership and Life Coaching? Visit Rob’s website: RobHarter.com Find us on YouTube: Nonprofit Leadership Podcast YouTube Channel Suggestions for the show? Email us at nonprofitleadershippodcast@gmail.com Request a sample coaching session: Email Rob at rob@robharter.com Subscribe and Share Listen and subscribe to the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast on iTunes , Spotify , or Amazon . Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with other nonprofit leaders!
35 min
Why do people give—and what happens in the brain when they decide to support a cause? Rob Harter sits down with fundraising strategist, behavioral science expert, and Neurogiving author Cherian Koshy to explore the neuroscience behind generosity. Cherian explains why charitable giving is closely connected to emotion, identity, belonging, and the brain’s reward systems—and why facts alone rarely inspire someone to donate. Cherian also shares practical ways nonprofit leaders can create more meaningful donor experiences, reduce unnecessary friction, and build lasting relationships rooted in trust. The conversation examines the ethical use of neuroscience and artificial intelligence in fundraising, emphasizing that these tools should deepen human connection rather than manipulate donors or reduce them to data points. Key Topics Include: Why generosity and charitable giving are wired into the human brain How giving expresses a donor’s identity, values, passions, and sense of belonging Why nonprofit communications should connect emotionally before presenting facts and data How confusion, excessive choices, insider language, and complicated donation forms create friction The difference between harmful friction and intentional questions that reinforce donor identity Ethical considerations for using neuroscience and artificial intelligence in fundraising How consistency, curiosity, transparency, and patience build donor trust and lifelong loyalty Mentioned in This Episode: Cherian Koshy’s Website Connect with Cherian Koshy on LinkedIn This Episode is Sponsored By: Donorbox Links to Resources: Interested in Leadership and Life Coaching? Visit Rob’s website: RobHarter.com Find us on YouTube: Nonprofit Leadership Podcast YouTube Channel Suggestions for the show? Email us at nonprofitleadershippodcast@gmail.com Request a sample coaching session: Email Rob at rob@robharter.com Subscribe and Share Listen and subscribe to the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast on iTunes , Spotify , or Amazon . Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with other nonprofit leaders!
31 min
Dr. Doris Macharia In this episode of the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast, Rob Harter speaks with Dr. Doris Macharia, President of the Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, about what it takes to lead with clarity, courage, and resilience during times of crisis. Dr. Macharia shares her journey from practicing medicine in Kenya to leading global HIV and public health initiatives, and how her background prepared her to step into executive leadership during a season of major international funding cuts. Dr. Macharia offers practical insight for nonprofit leaders navigating uncertainty, staffing challenges, donor shifts, and organizational change. She emphasizes the importance of staying anchored to mission, communicating consistently, making decisive choices, caring for yourself as a leader, and building trust through presence, empathy, and action. Key Topics Include: How nonprofit leaders can build trust when stepping into leadership during a crisis Why mission clarity gives organizations authority and direction during uncertain times Leading global health and nonprofit work through funding cuts and resource scarcity The importance of communication, listening, and visible leadership with staff and stakeholders How collaboration with governments, communities, donors, and partners strengthens impact Why leaders must make decisions quickly, even with limited information The role of self-care, family support, preparation, and personal values in sustainable leadership Mentioned in This Episode: Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation: https://pedaids.org EGPAF on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/egpaf EGPAF on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/elizabeth-glaser-pediatric-aids-foundation This Episode is Sponsored By: DonorBox: Links to Resources: Interested in Leadership and Life Coaching? Visit Rob’s website: RobHarter.com Find us on YouTube: Nonprofit Leadership Podcast YouTube Channel Suggestions for the show? Email us at nonprofitleadershippodcast@gmail.com Request a sample coaching session: Email Rob at rob@robharter.com Subscribe and Share Listen and subscribe to the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast on iTunes , Spotify , or Amazon . Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with other nonprofit leaders!
33 min
In this episode of the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast, Dr. Rob Harter speaks with Clare Durrett and Dr. Terri Thompson of Answer ALS about how trust, collaboration, and shared data can accelerate meaningful impact. Answer ALS began after a powerful summit led by Steve Gleason and Team Gleason, where patients, caregivers, researchers, clinicians, and advocates came together to rethink how ALS research could move forward with fewer barriers and greater urgency. Clare and Terri share how Answer ALS developed Neuromine, a globally accessible research platform designed to help researchers explore clinical, genomic, biological, and multi-omic data in one place. Their conversation offers valuable lessons for nonprofit leaders on building trust with stakeholders, protecting community-centered values, scaling ambitious work, and creating systems that make collaboration easier than working in isolation. Key Topics Include: How Steve Gleason and the ALS community helped spark the creation of Answer ALS Why traditional disease research often gets slowed down by data silos and limited access How Neuromine helps researchers access, compare, and use complex ALS data more efficiently The importance of patient partnership, dignity, and agency in nonprofit and medical research models How Answer ALS balances global accessibility with privacy, security, and scientific rigor Why trust with donors, researchers, and the community is essential for long-term impact Lessons for nonprofit leaders on collaboration, transparency, data stewardship, and scaling a mission Mentioned in This Episode: Answer ALS: https://www.answerals.org Neuromine: https://www.answerals.org/neuromine Answer ALS on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/answer-als This Episode is Sponsored By: DonorBox: Links to Resources: Interested in Leadership and Life Coaching? Visit Rob’s website: RobHarter.com Find us on YouTube: Nonprofit Leadership Podcast YouTube Channel Suggestions for the show? Email us at nonprofitleadershippodcast@gmail.com Request a sample coaching session: Email Rob at rob@robharter.com Subscribe and Share Listen and subscribe to the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast on iTunes , Spotify , or Amazon . Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with other nonprofit leaders!
32 min
Jay Williams In this episode of the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast, Rob Harter talks with Jay Williams, President and CEO of the Greater Hartford Gives Foundation. Jay shares his leadership journey from banking and public service to becoming the first African American and youngest mayor of Youngstown, Ohio, serving in the Obama administration, and now leading one of Connecticut’s major community foundations. Rob and Jay discuss how philanthropy, nonprofit partnerships, workforce development, and education can come together to create lasting community impact. Jay explains why the Greater Hartford Gives Foundation is investing deeply in the next generation through its Greater Futures Scholarship partnership with Hartford Promise, helping students access college, wraparound support, and the opportunity to graduate with little to no student loan debt. Key Topics Include: Jay Williams’ journey from banking and public service to nonprofit and philanthropic leadership Why community foundations must use data, partnerships, and local insight to address inequity The Greater Hartford Gives Foundation’s five strategic priorities: basic human needs, employment, thriving neighborhoods, civic resident engagement, and arts and culture How student loan debt impacts local economies, workforce development, homeownership, and long-term community growth The Greater Futures Scholarship partnership with Hartford Promise and its potential to provide up to $100,000 over four years Why wraparound services are essential for helping first-generation college students succeed Leadership lessons on building strong teams, creating a collaborative culture, and taking responsibility when challenges arise Mentioned in This Episode: Greater Hartford Gives Foundation Greater Futures Scholarship Fund Hartford Promise Hartford Promise Scholarship This Episode is Sponsored By : DonorBox Links to Resources: Interested in Leadership and Life Coaching? Visit Rob’s website: RobHarter.com Find us on YouTube: Nonprofit Leadership Podcast YouTube Channel Suggestions for the show? Email us at nonprofitleadershippodcast@gmail.com Request a sample coaching session: Email Rob at rob@robharter.com Subscribe and Share Listen and subscribe to the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast on iTunes , Spotify , or Amazon . Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with other nonprofit leaders!
40 min
In this episode, Dr. Rob Harter speaks with Michelle Dubiski, mother of Madison Dubiski, who tragically lost her life during the 2021 Astroworld Festival tragedy in Houston. Michelle shares Madison’s servant-hearted spirit, her deep love for others, and how an organic movement called #PinkBowsForMadison became a symbol of love, remembrance, and hope. Rob is also joined by Steve Allen, an event management and crowd safety expert who has partnered with the Pink Bows Foundation to help create global standards for show-stop procedures and live event safety. Together, Michelle and Steve share how grief has been transformed into advocacy, education, safe spaces, and a growing movement to prevent future tragedies at concerts, festivals, sporting events, and other large gatherings. Key Topics Include: The story of Madison Dubiski and the tragedy that inspired the Pink Bows Foundation How the #PinkBowsForMadison movement spread from Houston across the world Why nonprofits can grow powerful movements through community support, clarity of mission, and collaboration The foundation’s three pillars: philanthropic giving, safe spaces at events, and show-stop safety training How Steve Allen and Dr. Mark Hamilton helped develop an internationally accredited show-stop procedure course Why live event safety protocols matter at concerts, festivals, stadiums, and large public gatherings How the Pink Bows Foundation is partnering with global experts, venues, promoters, and public safety leaders to create lasting change Mentioned in This Episode: Pink Bows Foundation About the Pink Bows Foundation Pink Bows Foundation: Madison Dubiski’s family turns tragedy into advocacy ( Pink Bows Foundation ) Email the Pink Bows Foundation: info@pinkbowsfoundation.org Follow the Pink Bows Foundation on Facebook , Instagram , and LinkedIn This Episode is Sponsored By: DonorBox Links to Resources: Interested in Leadership and Life Coaching? Visit Rob’s website: RobHarter.com Find us on YouTube: Nonprofit Leadership Podcast YouTube Channel Suggestions for the show? Email us at nonprofitleadershippodcast@gmail.com Request a sample coaching session: Email Rob at rob@robharter.com Subscribe and Share Listen and subscribe to the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast on iTunes , Spotify , or Amazon . Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with other nonprofit leaders!
36 min
Hanna Bauer In this episode of the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast, Rob Harter talks with Hanna Bauer, founder of HEARTnomics®, about what it really means to lead with clarity, courage, and service. Hanna shares how her childhood battle with heart disease, including a groundbreaking heart ablation surgery, shaped the way she thinks about uncertainty, resilience, and servant leadership. Drawing from her work as a leadership strategist, consultant, coach, and speaker, Hanna explains how nonprofit leaders can move beyond reactive decision-making and build sustainable organizations rooted in vision, values, accountability, and trust. She also introduces her HEART leadership framework and BEAT method as practical tools for helping leaders align people, purpose, performance, and long-term impact. Key Topics Include: How Hanna’s childhood experience with heart disease shaped her leadership philosophy Why effective leadership begins with service and a clear vision The importance of values-based leadership for nonprofit culture and trust How the HEART framework helps leaders build alignment, sustainability, and impact Why founder-led nonprofits often struggle with sustainability and succession How nonprofit leaders can recognize burnout and create healthier rhythms of leadership Moving from reactive leadership to proactive, values-driven decision-making Mentioned in This Episode: Hanna Bauer on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bauerhanna HEARTnomics: https://heartnomics.com HEARTnomics Leadership Profile: https://heartnomics.com/heartnomics-leadership-profile/ Ser Familia: https://serfamilia.org This Episode is Sponsored By: DonorBox Links to Resources: Interested in Leadership and Life Coaching? Visit Rob’s website: RobHarter.com Find us on YouTube: Nonprofit Leadership Podcast YouTube Channel Suggestions for the show? Email us at nonprofitleadershippodcast@gmail.com Request a sample coaching session: Email Rob at rob@robharter.com Subscribe and Share Listen and subscribe to the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast on iTunes , Spotify , or Amazon . Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with other nonprofit leaders!
37 min
Arun Gupta In this episode of the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast, Rob Harter speaks with Arun Gupta, CEO of NobleReach Foundation, venture capitalist, Stanford lecturer, Georgetown entrepreneurship professor, and bestselling author of The Mission Generation . Arun shares how his work across entrepreneurship, technology, public policy, venture finance, and social impact has shaped his belief that today’s workforce is increasingly seeking purpose, mission, and public impact in their careers. Rob and Arun discuss how the pandemic, geopolitical instability, artificial intelligence, and rapid social change have caused many people across generations to rethink what they want from work. Arun explains why “stability is the new risk,” why mission-driven careers are no longer limited to one generation or one sector, and how nonprofit leaders can foster innovation, experimentation, and cross-sector collaboration without losing sight of their mission. Key Topics Include: Why emerging and established leaders are increasingly seeking purpose, impact, and mission in their work What Arun means by the “Mission Generation” and why it is a posture, not simply an age group The four major barriers to mission-driven careers: internal, relational, societal, and institutional How nonprofit leaders can help staff connect personal ambition with civic responsibility Why social impact organizations need to embrace experimentation, risk-taking, and innovation The importance of cross-sector careers that move between nonprofit, business, government, and technology Why trust, talent, and interdependence will be critical for the future of mission-driven leadership Mentioned in This Episode: The Mission Generation : NobleReach Foundation : This Episode is Sponsored By: DonorBox : Links to Resources: Interested in Leadership and Life Coaching? Visit Rob’s website: RobHarter.com Find us on YouTube: Nonprofit Leadership Podcast YouTube Channel Suggestions for the show? Email us at nonprofitleadershippodcast@gmail.com Request a sample coaching session: Email Rob at rob@robharter.com Subscribe and Share Listen and subscribe to the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast on iTunes , Spotify , or Amazon . Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with other nonprofit leaders!
45 min
Dianne Bailey In this episode, Dr. Rob Harter talks with Dianne Bailey, Managing Director and National Philanthropic Strategy Executive at Bank of America Private Bank, about the changing landscape of nonprofit fundraising, affluent donors, and the future of charitable giving. Dianne brings decades of experience in philanthropy, nonprofit law, donor strategy, and foundation work, offering a unique view from the intersection of donors and nonprofit leaders. Rob and Dianne discuss key findings from the Bank of America Study of Philanthropy, including why total giving is increasing while fewer households are giving, how nonprofits can build deeper donor relationships, and why volunteer engagement often leads to greater generosity. They also explore donor advised funds, planned giving, women in philanthropy, rising-generation donors, and the massive intergenerational wealth transfer that could reshape nonprofit fundraising for decades to come. Key Topics Include: Why fewer affluent households are giving, even as total charitable giving continues to rise How nonprofits can move from transactional fundraising to relational donor engagement The importance of listening to donors and aligning giving opportunities with their values, interests, and experiences Why volunteers often become stronger, more generous long-term donors How nonprofits can prepare for the great intergenerational wealth transfer through planned giving Why women and rising-generation donors should be key priorities for nonprofit fundraising strategies How donor advised funds can help nonprofits receive larger and more strategic gifts Mentioned in This Episode: Bank of America Study of Philanthropy Connect with Dianne Bailey on LinkedIn This Episode is Sponsored By: DonorBox Links to Resources: Interested in Leadership and Life Coaching? Visit Rob’s website: RobHarter.com Find us on YouTube: Nonprofit Leadership Podcast YouTube Channel Suggestions for the show? Email us at nonprofitleadershippodcast@gmail.com Request a sample coaching session: Email Rob at rob@robharter.com Subscribe and Share Listen and subscribe to the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast on iTunes , Spotify , or Amazon . Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with other nonprofit leaders!
33 min
Walter Kim In this episode of the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast, Rob Harter talks with Walter Kim, president of the NAE, about the urgent need to rebuild trust, strengthen local communities, and rediscover what it means to be a good neighbor. Walter shares how declining trust, loneliness, polarization, and compassion fatigue are affecting generosity, volunteerism, and civic life across the country. Walter also introduces the Good Neighbor Day America movement, a nationwide call to service designed to help churches, nonprofits, and community groups take simple, practical steps toward neighborliness. From cleaning up parks to supporting local schools, feeding people, and partnering across differences, Walter explains how small acts of kindness can grow into meaningful community transformation. Key Topics Include: Why trust is declining in communities, nonprofits, and faith-based organizations How polarization and ideological conflict affect generosity and volunteer engagement The importance of relational proximity in rebuilding trust at the local level How compassion fatigue, loss of agency, and lack of access can prevent people from serving Why small, visible acts of kindness can create lasting cultural change The vision behind Good Neighbor Day America and how organizations can participate How nonprofit leaders can model service, humility, empathy, and neighborliness Mentioned in This Episode: National Association of Evangelicals This Episode is Sponsored By: DonorBox Links to Resources: Interested in Leadership and Life Coaching? Visit Rob’s website: RobHarter.com Find us on YouTube: Nonprofit Leadership Podcast YouTube Channel Suggestions for the show? Email us at nonprofitleadershippodcast@gmail.com Request a sample coaching session: Email Rob at rob@robharter.com Subscribe and Share Listen and subscribe to the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast on iTunes , Spotify , or Amazon . Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with other nonprofit leaders!
48 min
Steve Cadigan In this episode of the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast, Dr. Rob Harter speaks with Steve Cadigan, talent strategist, author of Workquake , and LinkedIn’s first Chief HR Officer. Steve shares how the employer-employee relationship has changed dramatically in recent years, especially as AI, remote work, frequent career changes, and shifting expectations around purpose and flexibility continue to reshape the workplace. Steve explains why nonprofit leaders can no longer rely on traditional ideas of long-term retention or job security. Instead, he encourages leaders to offer “career security” by helping employees grow, learn, and become better prepared for an uncertain future. For nonprofits, this shift creates a powerful opportunity to attract mission-driven talent, build stronger alumni relationships, redesign roles for shorter talent cycles, and create cultures where people want to contribute deeply—even if they do not stay forever. Key Topics Include: Why the “workquake” is changing how leaders recruit, retain, and develop talent The difference between job security and career security How nonprofit leaders can build stronger talent strategies in a short-tenure workplace Why employees are increasingly loyal to learning, growth, and purpose How nonprofits can attract people in career transition through “tour of duty” roles The value of alumni communities and maintaining relationships with former employees Why reverse mentoring can help younger employees contribute, grow, and stay engaged Mentioned in This Episode: Steve Cadigan’s website: https://stevecadigan.com Steve Cadigan’s book, Workquake : https://stevecadigan.com/workquake/ Steve Cardigan on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cadigan/ This Episode is Sponsored By: DonorBox Links to Resources: Interested in Leadership and Life Coaching? Visit Rob’s website: RobHarter.com Find us on YouTube: Nonprofit Leadership Podcast YouTube Channel Suggestions for the show? Email us at nonprofitleadershippodcast@gmail.com Request a sample coaching session: Email Rob at rob@robharter.com Subscribe and Share Listen and subscribe to the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast on iTunes , Spotify , or Amazon . Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with other nonprofit leaders!
30 min
Caitlin Baron In this episode, Dr. Rob Harter welcomes Caitlin Baron, CEO of the Luminos Fund, to discuss how nonprofit leaders can sustain long-term impact while scaling mission-driven work. Caitlin shares her personal journey from growing up in Brooklyn, where she saw firsthand how education changes opportunity, to leading international education initiatives that help children who have been denied access to school. Caitlin explains how the Luminos Fund creates second-chance education programs for out-of-school children across Africa, helping students cover three years of learning in just one year. She also shares practical leadership insights on scaling impact, building strong partnerships, staying focused on mission, cultivating joyful learning environments, and growing as a leader while an organization expands. Key Topics Include: How the Luminos Fund helps out-of-school children catch up and reenter school with peers their own age Why nonprofit leaders should focus on community assets instead of only looking at needs or deficits How Luminos scales impact through African-led community-based organizations and government partnerships The importance of open-source tools, teacher guides, and the Luminos Method for expanding education access Why joyful learning, play-based instruction, and safe classroom environments accelerate academic outcomes How Caitlin’s leadership evolved from hands-on program builder to steward of strategy, culture, hiring, and risk management Why nonprofit CEOs must stay in dialogue with the external environment while keeping internal teams aligned Mentioned in This Episode: Luminos Fund: https://luminosfund.org The Luminos Method: https://luminosfund.org/luminos-method Luminos Method on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com This Episode is Sponsored By: DonorBox Links to Resources: Interested in Leadership and Life Coaching? Visit Rob’s website: RobHarter.com Find us on YouTube: Nonprofit Leadership Podcast YouTube Channel Suggestions for the show? Email us at nonprofitleadershippodcast@gmail.com Request a sample coaching session: Email Rob at rob@robharter.com Subscribe and Share Listen and subscribe to the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast on iTunes , Spotify , or Amazon . Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with other nonprofit leaders!
1 hr 25 min
In this special four-state panel discussion, Rob Harter brings together nonprofit leaders from Utah, Idaho, Wyoming, and Colorado to discuss the biggest trends impacting nonprofit leadership today. Guests Jill Bennett of the Utah Nonprofits Association, Kevin Bailey of the Idaho Community Foundation and Idaho Nonprofit Center, Jodi Shields of the Wyoming Nonprofit Network, and Lloyd Lewis of arc Thrift Stores share practical insights on financial sustainability, fundraising challenges, staff burnout, AI, board governance, collaboration, and social enterprise. Together, the panel explores how nonprofit organizations can continue to serve rising community needs while facing funding uncertainty, workforce pressure, and rapid technological change. This conversation offers honest encouragement and practical strategies for executive directors, board members, fundraisers, and nonprofit staff who are navigating today’s complex nonprofit landscape. Key Topics Include: How nonprofit leaders are responding to financial uncertainty, changing donor behavior, and reduced grant funding The growing challenge of nonprofit staff burnout and how organizations can better support and retain employees Why mission alignment, flexible work, clear expectations, and healthy workplace culture matter for nonprofit retention Practical ways nonprofits are using AI and technology to save time, improve communication, and strengthen operations Board governance best practices, including the role of the board, ideal board size, and when to use advisory boards How nonprofit collaboration, mergers, shared services, and collective impact models can increase effectiveness The importance of joining state nonprofit associations and building a stronger collective voice for the sector Mentioned in This Episode: Utah Nonprofits Association UTAHGIVES Idaho Community Foundation Idaho Nonprofit Center Idaho Gives Wyoming Nonprofit Network WyoGives arc Thrift Stores arc Thrift Stores Gala This Episode is Sponsored By: DonorBox Links to Resources: Interested in Leadership and Life Coaching? Visit Rob’s website: RobHarter.com Find us on YouTube: Nonprofit Leadership Podcast YouTube Channel Suggestions for the show? Email us at nonprofitleadershippodcast@gmail.com Request a sample coaching session: Email Rob at rob@robharter.com Subscribe and Share Listen and subscribe to the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast on iTunes , Spotify , or Amazon . Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with other nonprofit leaders!
33 min
Pierre Le Manh In this episode of the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast, Rob Harter talks with Pierre Le Manh, President and CEO of Project Management Institute (PMI), about how nonprofit leaders can stay grounded in their mission while navigating rapid change, uncertainty, and transformation. Pierre shares why clarity of purpose, adaptive execution, transparency, and values-based leadership are essential for keeping teams aligned and motivated even when conditions are shifting. Rob and Pierre also explore why project management skills are no longer reserved for people with the project manager title. From prioritization and stakeholder alignment to AI adoption, enterprise agility, and long-term thinking, this conversation offers practical leadership insights for nonprofit executives who want to improve execution, avoid mission drift, and lead change with empathy. Pierre also points listeners to PMI’s resources and his LinkedIn profile for continued learning. Key Topics Include: How nonprofit leaders can stay anchored in purpose during seasons of rapid change and uncertainty Why adaptive execution often works better than overplanning and overregulating in mission-driven organizations The growing importance of project management skills for nonprofit leaders, CEOs, and teams leading transformation How prioritization, planning, and stakeholder trust directly improve mission outcomes What it looks like to integrate AI with empathy, experimentation, and people-first leadership How to avoid shiny object syndrome and build practical guardrails around new technology adoption Why resilience, reflective practice, and long-term thinking help leaders sustain impact over time Mentioned in This Episode: Pierre Le Manh on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pierre-le-manh-3a4158 Project Management Institute (PMI): https://www.pmi.org/ This Episode is Sponsored By: Donorbox Links to Resources: Interested in Leadership and Life Coaching? Visit Rob’s website: RobHarter.com Find us on YouTube: Nonprofit Leadership Podcast YouTube Channel Suggestions for the show? Email us at nonprofitleadershippodcast@gmail.com Request a sample coaching session: Email Rob at rob@robharter.com Subscribe and Share Listen and subscribe to the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast on iTunes , Spotify , or Amazon . Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with other nonprofit leaders!
42 min
Greg Warner In this episode of the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast, Dr. Rob Harter sits down with Greg Warner, founder of MarketSmart, to explore how nonprofit leaders can use fundraising data more effectively. Greg shares the story behind the Fundraising Report Card, a free tool designed to help organizations better understand donor retention, lapsed donors, giving trends, and overall fundraising performance. The conversation also dives into the future of fundraising, including how AI can create efficiencies, improve donor engagement, and free up development teams to focus more on meaningful relationships. Greg offers a powerful reminder that donors should never be treated like ATMs, but rather as people looking for purpose, trust, and connection through their giving. Key Topics Include: What the Fundraising Report Card is and how it helps nonprofits assess donor trends, retention, and lapsed giving Why lifetime donor value is one of the most important metrics nonprofit leaders should understand Common data challenges organizations face, including poor data hygiene and activity-based measurement How AI can improve fundraising efficiency by handling repetitive tasks and supporting donor cultivation Why donor relationships should be approached relationally rather than transactionally How empathy for the donor experience can lead to more transformational gifts What nonprofit leaders should prepare for as fundraising continues to evolve in the years ahead Mentioned in This Episode: Greg Warner on LinkedIn MarketSmart: iMarketSmart.com Fundraising Report Card: FundraisingReportCard.com This Episode is Sponsored By: DonorBox Links to Resources: Interested in Leadership and Life Coaching? Visit Rob’s website: RobHarter.com Find us on YouTube: Nonprofit Leadership Podcast YouTube Channel Suggestions for the show? Email us at nonprofitleadershippodcast@gmail.com Request a sample coaching session: Email Rob at rob@robharter.com Subscribe and Share Listen and subscribe to the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast on iTunes , Spotify , or Amazon . Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with other nonprofit leaders!
44 min
Christoph Gorder In this episode of the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast, Rob Harter sits down with Christoph Gorder, leader of Airbnb.org, to explore how Airbnb has built a social impact model that looks very different from a traditional corporate foundation. As an independent 501(c)(3), Airbnb.org operates separately from Airbnb while still leveraging the company’s technology, host network, and infrastructure to provide emergency housing for people displaced by disasters and other crises. Christoph shares how Airbnb.org is rethinking disaster response by using millions of available homes around the world to provide fast, flexible, dignified shelter for families in need. He also talks about leadership, scaling nonprofit impact, the role of AI and technology in modern nonprofit operations, and why strategic partnerships are essential for responding effectively in moments of crisis. This conversation is packed with insights for nonprofit leaders who want to innovate, collaborate, and maximize their mission impact. Key Topics Include: How Airbnb.org is structured as an independent 501(c)(3) with its own board and mission Why Airbnb.org’s model is different from a traditional corporate social responsibility or philanthropic arm How the organization scaled from responding to 8 disasters in 2023 to 78 disasters two years later What nonprofit leaders can learn about focus, standardization, and scaling wisely How Airbnb.org used local partnerships like 211LA and Catholic Charities to respond quickly during the Los Angeles wildfires Why giving displaced families choice and control is such an important part of effective disaster housing How AI, technology, and collaboration can help nonprofits become more efficient and responsive Mentioned in This Episode: Airbnb.org This Episode is Sponsored By: DonorBox Links to Resources: Interested in Leadership and Life Coaching? Visit Rob’s website: RobHarter.com Find us on YouTube: Nonprofit Leadership Podcast YouTube Channel Suggestions for the show? Email us at nonprofitleadershippodcast@gmail.com Request a sample coaching session: Email Rob at rob@robharter.com Subscribe and Share Listen and subscribe to the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast on iTunes , Spotify , or Amazon . Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with other nonprofit leaders!
32 min
David Beckmann joins Dr. Rob Harter for a conversation on poverty alleviation, public policy, and the practical steps nonprofit leaders can take to reduce hunger and hardship in the United States and around the world. A pastor, economist, activist, and former president of Bread for the World, David shares insights from decades of advocacy work and discusses the central ideas in his book, Poverty Abolitionists. In this episode, David reflects on the significant progress that has been made in reducing poverty over recent decades, while also warning that recent policy shifts are reversing some of those gains. Rob and David explore the role of nonprofit advocacy, the intersection of faith and public policy, and why leaders in the social impact sector need a vision that extends beyond their own organizations. Key Topics Include: Why David Beckmann believes poverty is a solvable problem in the U.S. and globally What decades of data reveal about the dramatic decline in global and U.S. poverty rates How advocacy can help nonprofit leaders influence policies that affect hunger and poverty The impact of government funding cuts, tariffs, and immigration policies on vulnerable communities Why nonprofit organizations play a unique role in offering both practical support and personal connection How faith, spirituality, and beliefs about justice can shape public support for anti-poverty policies Why nonprofit leaders need a mission bigger than their organization to create lasting change Mentioned in This Episode: David Beckmann’s website: https://www.davidbeckmann.net David Beckmann’s book: Poverty Abolitionists Bread for the World: https://www.bread.org Alliance to End Hunger: https://alliancetoendhunger.org Feeding America: https://www.feedingamerica.org This Episode is Sponsored By: DonorBox Links to Resources: Interested in Leadership and Life Coaching? Visit Rob’s website: RobHarter.com Find us on YouTube: Nonprofit Leadership Podcast YouTube Channel Suggestions for the show? Email us at nonprofitleadershippodcast@gmail.com Request a sample coaching session: Email Rob at rob@robharter.com Subscribe and Share Listen and subscribe to the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast on iTunes , Spotify , or Amazon . Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with other nonprofit leaders!
44 min
Asiaha Butler In this episode Dr. Rob Harter sits down with Asiaha Butler, co-founder and CEO of the Resident Association of Greater Englewood (R.A.G.E.), to explore how one resident’s decision to stay transformed into a powerful, resident-led movement for community healing, ownership, and revitalization. Asiaha shares the defining moment that changed her life: seeing a young girl playing in a vacant lot filled with broken glass and deciding that leaving Englewood was no longer the answer. Through this conversation, Asiaha unpacks how grassroots leadership, deep relationship-building, and a mission bigger than yourself can spark lasting change. From helping residents reclaim vacant lots to promoting homeownership, economic justice, and neighborhood belonging, her story offers nonprofit leaders a compelling model for building trust, preventing mission drift, and leading with both courage and joy. Key Topics Include: How a single moment in a vacant lot inspired Asiaha Butler to stay in Englewood and invest in her community The founding story of R.A.G.E. (Resident Association of Greater Englewood) and its resident-led approach to transformation Why “community development of the mind” is essential before physical redevelopment can succeed How relationship-building, belonging, and “porch life” help restore social fabric in disconnected communities The role of vacant land activation, homeownership, and the Buy the Block Homebuyer Grant in advancing economic justice How nonprofit leaders can document their story, reflect on their journey, and share their mission more effectively Asiaha’s leadership lessons on rest, reflection, joy, and preventing burnout in mission-driven work Mentioned in This Episode: Resident Association of Greater Englewood (R.A.G.E.) Asiaha Butler on Instagram (@mrs_englewood) R.A.G.E. on Instagram (@rage_englewood) This Episode is Sponsored By: DonorBox Links to Resources: Interested in Leadership and Life Coaching? Visit Rob’s website: RobHarter.com Find us on YouTube: Nonprofit Leadership Podcast YouTube Channel Suggestions for the show? Email us at nonprofitleadershippodcast@gmail.com Request a sample coaching session: Email Rob at rob@robharter.com Subscribe and Share Listen and subscribe to the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast on iTunes , Spotify , or Amazon . Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with other nonprofit leaders!